The concept of spring cleaning applies to more than just the inside of your home. How about undertaking some outdoor spring cleaning projects that will get your backyard living room ready for lots of fun this summer? Here are our suggestions for spruce-ups that will bring your backyard oasis back to life.
Start With a Clean Sweep
Step one of your outdoor cleaning projects is to put away and secure any items that aren’t permanently in place (if you haven’t already done so getting ready for winter). We are referring to things like outdoor lamps, candles, magazines, ashtrays, toys, potted plants, etc. Secure them safely away before you start in on the general cleaning process. If necessary, wipe these items down with a damp cloth or wash them in the sink with a mild detergent solution. While you are at it, pick up any trash that may have blown onto your lawn.
Brush Away the Dirt
More than likely your outdoor furniture, umbrellas and barbecue grill cover are coated in a layer of dust. The best way to (literally) make a clean sweep of your entire backyard living room is to take a stiff brush to any fabric surfaces. This will dislodge loose dirt. It’s important to brush away excess dust and dirt first. Take a moment to sweep pathways, pavers, stone walls and the pool deck, with an outdoor broom, too. Otherwise, you will simply create a muddy mess when you move onto the next step.
Get It Wet
Now it’s time to break out a garden hose. Your patio pavers may be stained and there are likely dead leaves and insects accumulated in the cracks and crevices of furnishings and landscaping areas. A good spray with the hose will remove the majority of built-up dirt and debris.  Don’t forget to hit your window frames, screens and shutters, too.
After the initial spray, identify any deeply soiled or stained areas. Whatever dirty spots are left after the spray down will need to be tackled with stronger cleaning tools. For upholstery on your outdoor furniture, start with a mild detergent solution and gently dab at the stain or use a soft nail brush, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. You could also try rubbing a bit of Fels-Naptha bar soap over the spots.
Any items made out of metal or resin can take a stronger cleaning solution, such as one with hydrogen peroxide. For natural paving stones, rock walls and concrete, a sturdy scrub brush and undiluted bleach (use rubber gloves to protect your hands) will help you get to the root of the stain. Baking soda makes a safe, effective and easy-to-use scrub.
Post Outdoor Spring Cleaning Projects
When your backyard living room is tidy and clean, it is the perfect time to assess what new outdoor furniture and accessories you could use. This is a great time to shop for new sofa pillows, chair cushions, umbrella cover, outdoor lamps and more. You may even be tempted to add outdoor artwork on a bare wall.
Now is the perfect time of year to start these outdoor spring cleaning projects in your backyard oasis. With a bit of time and elbow grease, your space will be ready for relaxing and entertaining this spring and summer.
